Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Unspoilt African Beauty

Example holiday

Unspoilt African Beauty

We hope that this example holiday will give you give some inspiration to help you begin to plan your own dream holiday to Africa.

The next couple of pages show a summary of the itinerary, followed by a detailed page on each destination.

Important travel information for visitors to Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana is included at the back of this document.

All the holidays we offer to our clients are tailor-made so we can adjust this trip to fit in with your travel dates, interests, preferred accommodation...and of course your budget.

All our travel consultants have extensive knowledge of travel throughout Southern and East Africa, and our strong relationships with suppliers mean that our rates to you will always be competitive.

Let us take the hard work out of planning your trip: you can get in touch either by giving us a call on +44 (0) 1483 266725, completing the Enquiry Form on our website or emailing us at info@travelbutlers.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The Travel Butlers Team

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Unspoilt African Beauty

Example Itinerary

TB-1826-1 / 27917

Example Cost

Holiday Title: Unspoilt African Beauty

Holiday Destination: Holiday to Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana for 8 nights

Passengers: 2 Adults

Example Cost for 2 Adults: * per person sharing.

*Excludes international flights from your home country - please ask us if you would like us to include these for you.

All monies paid by UK customers for the air package holiday shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 10245.

When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

Enquire Now
 

About Us

  • African Specialists
  • Friendly Expert Service
  • Tailor-made itineraries
  • Price Promise
  • No Credit Card Fees
  • ATOL Protected
  • UK Based
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Summary Of The Itinerary

Printable Version

Holiday Title: Unspoilt African Beauty

Passengers: 2 Adults

Day 1

Arrive into Victoria Falls Airport. Collect your luggage, then make your way into the Arrivals Hall where your driver will meet you. You will then be transferred by road to Victoria Falls River Lodge.

Victoria Falls River Lodge, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, is the first privately owned safari lodge to be built within the Zambezi National Park. The lodge is ideally located for exploring Victoria Falls and combines an African safari experience with one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World - the iconic Victoria Falls - the spray of which can be seen in the distance.


Day 3

You will be collected this morning and driven to the Kazungula border post, where you will complete the border formalities to exit Zambia. You will then be transferred by small speed boat across the Zambezi River to Botswana, where you will present your passport and enter the country. You will then be transferred the short distance to Kasane Airport.

Here, a representative from the Zambezi Queen will meet you and you will be transferred to the Kasane Immigration office, where your passport will be stamped OUT of Botswana. You are then taken by a small boat launch across the river to the Namibian Border Post on Impalila Island where you officially enter Namibia. Finally, you board your small boat launch again and you head to the Zambezi Queen where you are welcomed aboard.

Located on the great Chobe River that borders Namibia and the Chobe National Park in Botswana, the Zambezi Queen is a boutique floating hotel offering unsurpassed elegance and luxurious comfort. Departing 3 days a week, this unique African river safari traverses 25 km of the Chobe River while you soak up beautiful scenery and enjoy mouthwatering food. The banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephant on the African continent - estimated at over 100,000. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard and lion, along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.


Day 5

You will be taken by small boat launch back to the Namibian Border Post on Impalila Island where your passport will be stamped to show you are now leaving Namibia. You will then be taken across the river to Kasane Immigration where you enter Botswana again. You will then be transferred to Kasane Airport where you will be met and assisted with the check in for your flight across to the Delta.

Light Aircraft Transfer Seat in Plane Rate operated by Mack Air (Light Aircraft): Fly from Kasane Airport (BBK) to Chiefs Camp - arrival and departure times to be confirmed

You will be met at the airstrip and transferred to Chief's Camp, located on famous Chief's Island in the Moremi Game Reserve. Expert guides are always on hand to share their wealth of wildlife knowledge as you explore the Delta in modified open 4x4 vehicles on morning and afternoon game drives. On the plains you may find the roaming lions that prey on the thousands of antelope, zebra and buffalo who live here all year round.


Day 9

After a morning safari activity (time permitting) and breakfast, you will be transferred back to the airstrip.

Light Aircraft Transfer Seat in Plane Rate operated by Mack Air (Light Aircraft): Fly from Chiefs Camp to Maun Airport (MUB) - arrival and departure times to be confirmed

You will be met at Maun Airport and assisted with the check in for your onward flight.
 
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Victoria Falls River Lodge

Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe: 2 Nights

Victoria Falls River Lodge is the first private game lodge set in the Zambezi National Park. This luxury tented lodge is situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River - so close to Victoria Falls you can see the spray in the distance. Positioned just meters from the river's edge, guests can enjoy panoramic views over the Zambezi River - interrupted only by the occasional elephant strolling by, or the melodious sounds of birdsong and the gentle munching of the 'resident' warthogs as they keep the lawns neatly trimmed.

Join your guide and head out in a game-viewer to explore the Park in search of its diverse wildlife. Whether opting to be the first to catch the ‘bush telegraphs’ early broadcast of the previous night’s events - or preferring to take a leisurely break from an afternoon of game spotting, to enjoy the phenomenal sunset with sun-downers – a safari experience here promises to be memorable. A relaxing voyage on a luxury river cruise is arguably one of the best ways on earth to soak in the magnificence of this iconic river and its surrounds. Watch as the sun’s first rays skip and dance across the shimmering surface, or for the not-so-early-birds, sit back and let the gentle ebb and flow of the river relax you.

After a day full of excitement, guests can relax, refresh and recharge in the river-side lounge, retreat to your private viewing deck where one can sit and watch the hippos wallowing, take a stroll around the lodge or unwind alongside the pool with a favourite book.

The lodge boasts 8 Luxury Tents (each with a private deck and plunge pool), 4 secluded Island Treehouse Suites (also with private decks and plunge pools) which are set among the trees on the banks of the secluded Kandahar Island and accessible only by boat, and 2 Starbed Treehouse Suites which each have a rooftop sitting area and starbed. In addition, there are 5 Luxury Family Tents which consist of 2 adjoining tented rooms. The expansive en-suite bathrooms are open plan and shared and a curtain may be drawn between the bathroom and main living area thereby offering more privacy as and when required.

The main lodge has spacious open-plan dining, lounge and bar areas, an on-site fitness centre and the indulgent Africology affiliated Toa Spa.

Example Details For Victoria Falls River Lodge

Nights: 2 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Island Luxury Treehouse Suite with Plunge Pool
Includes: Transfer to/from the Victoria Falls Airport; all meals; local beverages; an optional daily transfer from the lodge to Victoria Falls Town (departing at 10:00; returning at 15:00); a tour of the Falls (as part of the 10:00 transfer to town - excluding the NP entry fee); 2 game activities per person per day (choice of a morning/afternoon game drive in the Zambezi National Park or a sunrise/sunset cruise); high tea; bird watching; and snacks/drinks on game drives and river cruises.

Children under 12 years of age are not permitted on walking safaris. Children younger than 18 years of age require signed authorisation from a parent/guardian.

Location

Victoria Falls River Lodge Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Victoria Falls River Lodge

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Zambezi Queen

Chobe River: 2 Nights

Moving along the banks of the great Chobe River, Zambezi Queen is a 5* 42 metre long luxury houseboat offering unparalleled sophistication in one of the most remote locations on the planet. Best of all, as a guest on the vessel, you can enjoy a truly unique and adventurous river safari holiday while still being surrounded by complete comfort and elegance.

Unlike a land-based lodge, Zambezi Queen navigates roughly 25 km of the Chobe River, allowing you to explore different vantage points and enjoy unparalleled game viewing. The banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephant on the African continent. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard and lion, along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.

Once onboard, there are a range of activities on offer, so you can choose just how much you want to pack into your holiday or how relaxed you want to be. Hop on a tender river safari boat to get up close to some of the stunning wildlife, take a morning birding cruise down the river with a knowledgeable guide, go on land and explore an authentic African village with curio shopping opportunities or try your luck at catching a legendary Tiger Fish.

Each of the 14 suites on Zambezi Queen features air-conditioning and your own private balcony, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Chobe River and African landscape beyond. Wake up to the sight of an elephant drinking from the river, or watch a fish eagle take flight – all from the comfort of your own luxurious bed. There are 10 Standard Suites and 4 Master Suites.

On the top deck you are transported to a sophisticated leisurely space with a separate dining area, bar, rear viewing deck, intimate lounge and a large front deck with loungers and plunge pool.

Example Details For Zambezi Queen

Nights: 2 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Master Suite (2 Night Stay) - Monday and Wednesday departures only
Includes: Transfers to/from Kasane Airport and Kasane Immigration; transfers to/from Kasane Immigration and the boat; all meals; all soft drinks, mineral water, tea/coffee, wines and beers; water-based game viewing and bird watching on tender boats; a land-based cultural tour of a local village; and tiger/bream fishing in season are included. PLEASE NOTE: Premium alcoholic beverages (spirits, sparking wine and dessert wine) are NOT included.

Location

Zambezi Queen Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Zambezi Queen

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Chief's Camp

Okavango Delta: 4 Nights

Sanctuary Chief's Camp is a luxury bush camp situated on Chief's Island in the exclusive Mombo Concession of the Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana. In this "predator capital of Africa", wild dog, lion, cheetah and leopard abound, and guests enjoy exceptional opportunities to interact with this amazing environment. Since the introduction of white rhino into the area, this is the only place in Botswana where these magnificent animals can be seen in their natural environment.

Game viewing opportunities include daily excursions in open-sided 4x4 vehicles and quiet mokoro excursions along narrow Delta channels during the flood season (subject to water levels). Expert guides are always on hand to offer a wealth of wildlife knowledge to help you make the most of these wonderful game viewing opportunities. Chief's Camp has, however, been so skillfully integrated into the landscape that guests can often view game without even leaving camp!

The main lodge area houses the dining area, curio shop, library and reception area. There is also an exquisite swimming pool and a range of spa treatments are offered by the beauty therapist in a poolside treatment sala (high season only). All this combined with first-class dining and wines regularly earns the camp rankings among the world’s top safari destinations from arbiters such as Condé Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure.

The 10 secluded, luxury bush pavilions are designed for ultimate privacy and comfort, and to offer you a front row seat for this rich and rewarding African adventure. Each pavilion features a thatched roof, spacious seating area, en-suite facilities with indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a private game viewing deck with hammock and deck chairs.

For thoe looking for the utmost privacy, the Geoffrey Kent Suite sleeps up to 6 - with each guest treated like royalty. Named after the explorer Geoffrey Kent, and inspired by this award-winning photographer and polo-playing philanthropist’s intrepid travels, you will find characterful interiors as well as a kitchen, indoor lounge, private boma and secluded deck areas. Included in the perks of this luxurious suite is your own vehicle and dedicated guide, as well as a personal chef, waiter and a housekeeper.

Example Details For Chief's Camp

Nights: 4 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Luxury Thatched Tent
Includes: All meals; all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (except premium brands); shared game view activities; and Park fees are included.

Please Note: As the animals are wild, it is not possible to guarantee what you will see during your safari.

Location

Chief's Camp Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Chief's Camp

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Zimbabwe

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Latest Travel Updates

For up-to-date travel information from the UK government, please check:

UK Government Advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/zimbabwe

 

Normally, holders of the following passports require a visa to enter Zimbabwe when travelling as a tourist:

United Kingdom; United States of America; Canada; Ireland; France; Germany; Spain; Portugal; Italy; Switzerland; Australia; New Zealand.

If you are a passport holder from another country, please contact your local Zimbabwe High Commission or Embassy for up-to-date visa requirements or check this website: https://www.evisa.gov.zw/.

The following visas are available (all costs are per person and subject to change):

Single Entry: USD 30 (apart from British and Irish nationals who are charged USD 55; and Canadian nationals who are charged USD 75)

Double Entry: USD 45 (apart from British and Irish nationals who are charged USD 75)

Visas will be issued on arrival at an entry point upon payment of the correct visa fee - please make sure you have the correct amount of cash (US dollars) with you as change may not be available.

You can also obtain your visa prior to arrival, and this can be done as an E-Visa via https://www.evisa.gov.zw/home.

For visitors wanting to travel across to Zambia, the KAZA UniVisa is also an option (although unfortunately this is not always available). This visa allows tourists of certain nationalities to travel freely between Zimbabwe and Zambia, within a 30 day period from the date of their first entry.

This same visa will also allow those who cross into Botswana for a day trip to come back into Zimbabwe (or Zambia) without paying any extra visa fees - please note however it is not valid if staying in Botswana overnight.

The UniVisa can ONLY be obtained at SELECTED border posts (currently Victoria Falls Airport, Victoria Falls Land Border, Kazungula Land Border (border with Botswana) and Harare Airport) - the current price is USD 50 per person (subject to change) and payable in cash.

To check whether you are eligible for this visa, please check the KAZA UniVisa sections of the Zambian or Zimbabwean government websites.

For anyone entering Zimbabwe, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry and have 3 blank pages left in it to enable you to enter Zimbabwe and exit via one of the neighbouring countries, if leaving at short notice becomes necessary.

PLEASE NOTE: Countries can change their entry requirements at any time. Travel Butlers try to ensure that the information displayed here is correct, but the onus remains with the traveller to verify the information with the relevant High Commission or Embassy and ensure that they can comply with the applicable entry requirements.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Zimbabwe

Continued

Medical

You are advised to contact your doctor or clinic around 4-8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations and to get their professional medical advice regarding travel to Zimbabwe.

To help prevent diarrhoea, avoid tap water – drink only bottled water and use bottled water for tooth brushing, and avoid ice made with tap water – and only eat fruit or vegetables that are cooked or can be peeled. To help avoid heatstroke, drink plenty of bottled water/fluids, and keep out of the midday sun.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Zimbabwe, so a yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for travellers whose sole destination is Zimbabwe. However, in accordance with International Health Regulations, Zimbabwe requires all travellers over one year of age arriving from a yellow fever risk country, or having been in transit longer than 12 hours at the airport of such a country, to have a yellow fever certificate. These countries include Kenya and Uganda but it is up to the traveller to check the full list here https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-maps

There is a risk of malaria in all areas of Zimbabwe - check with your doctor about suitable antimalarial tablets. Dengue fever can also be transmitted via mosquito bites. Try to avoid mosquito bites wherever possible - wear loose long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and use a repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

Tsetse flies are found throughout the northern Zambezi River drainage area, including the Lake Kariba area. There have been some cases of sleeping sickness occurring after a tsetse fly bite, although these are mainly amongst farmers and other locals who have repeated exposure to bites. However, the fly can still deliver a painful bite, so it is advisable to take necessary precautions - don't wear dark colours, especially black and blue (including denim), wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and don't walk through bushes during the hottest part of the day.

Languages And Culture

English is the official language of Zimbabwe and is widely spoken with all guides and general staff in camps and lodges having a good command. In the broader population however, not everyone will speak English fluently as many have grown up speaking different tribal languages. Other indigenous languages spoken include Shona and Ndebele.

We would ask that all travellers are respectful of the local culture as follows:

Carry a photocopy of your passport at all times. Leave your original passport somewhere safe.

It is against the law for civilians to wear any form of clothing made from camouflage material.

Photographing government offices, airports, military establishments, official residences, embassies and other sensitive places is illegal. Taking photographs of members of police and armed forces personnel and of demonstrations and protests is also not permitted. The area around State House in Harare (the President’s official residence) is patrolled by armed members of the Presidential Guard and photography here is strictly prohibited.

Some acts of homosexuality is illegal in Zimbabwe. Whilst everyone is of course entitled to their own sexual preferences and gender identity, we would advise all clients of the LGBT+ community to refrain from public displays of affection (including kissing and holding hands) and to be as discrete as possible about their relationship.

If you’re working as a journalist (for example, as a reporter or news photographer), you must get accreditation before you travel. If you do not have proper accreditation, you are at risk of arrest, detention in difficult conditions, a fine and deportation. The Zimbabwe government uses a broad definition of journalism. This may include any form of interview, filming or photography. Consider carefully the risks associated with engaging in social media activities such as posting comments, blogging or sharing photographs, which can be seen as journalism.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Namibia

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Latest Travel Updates

For up-to-date travel information from the UK government, please check:

UK Government Advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia

 

Normally, holders of the following passports do not require a visa to enter Namibia when travelling as a tourist for stays up to 90 days:

United Kingdom; United States of America; Canada; Australia; New Zealand; Ireland; Belgium; Netherlands; Italy; France; Germany; Spain; South Africa.

If you are a passport holder from another country, please contact your local Namibia High Commission or Embassy for up-to-date visa requirements, as citizens of certain countries are required to obtain visas before travelling. You can also check on https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Namibia

Please note that if you are applying to the Embassy for your visa, some visas can take a long time to be processed so please do take this into consideration, as it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visa in place before you travel.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Namibia and have at least one completely blank page for Namibian immigration to use. If you’re travelling to South Africa, you will need an additional 2 blank pages.

TRAVELLING TO/FROM NAMIBIA WITH CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE AT DATE OF TRAVEL: The following requirements apply regardless of nationality.

Parents travelling with children must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child, showing full details of the child's parents. If the birth certificate is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a sworn translation issued by a competent authority in the country concerned.

If the child is adopted, the adoption certificate must be produced.

If only one parent is travelling, said parent must also show consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent named on the birth certificate authorising the child to travel (the affidavit must be no more than 6 months old from the date of travel), or a court order granting full parental responsibilities to the travelling parent, or (where applicable) a death certificate for the deceased parent. Legally separated parents should also provide a court order when the other parent does not give consent.

Where a person is travelling with a child who is not their biological child, he/she must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child supplemented by affidavits from the child's parents/legal guardian giving consent for the child to travel and copies of the identity documents or passport of the parents/legal guardian PLUS their contact details.

There are also additional rules for unaccompanied minors - available on request.

PLEASE NOTE: All documents must be original - PHOTOCOPIES ARE NOT ACCEPTED. In the case of foreign countries that do not issue unabridged birth certificates, a letter to this effect issued by the competent authority of the foreign country should be produced.

For more information, please contact your Namibia High Commission.

IMPORTANT: Plastic bags are banned in all Namibian National Parks. Arriving visitors are requested to avoid bring plastic bags into the Parks and any plastic bags in your possession will be removed by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism personnel when you enter any of the National Parks.

PLEASE NOTE: Countries can change their entry requirements at any time. Travel Butlers try to ensure that the information displayed here is correct, but the onus remains with the traveller to verify the information with the relevant High Commission or Embassy and ensure that they can comply with the applicable entry requirements.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Namibia

Continued

Medical

You are advised to contact your doctor or clinic around 4-8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations and to get their professional medical advice regarding travel to Namibia.

To help avoid heatstroke, drink plenty of bottled water/fluids, and keep out of the midday sun.

Tap water is chemically treated and safe to drink in major cities and towns, but you can often taste the chemicals, so it is not particularly pleasant. Bottled water is readily available and is a much nicer-tasting alternative!

We also advise that you do not drink the water in more remote places such as Etosha and other National Parks, or on farms - the water may be safe to drink, but it simply is not worth the risk or being laid up with a dodgy stomach for the next few days. Do not drink water from any river lake without firstly purifying the water.

Always take water with you on a long car journey to avoid dehydration.

There is a risk of malaria in the Caprivi Strip. During the summer/wetter months (November-June), it is also advisable to take malaria precautions if you are visiting the Etosha National Park although the risk of malaria during this time is still deemed to be low. Check with your doctor about suitable antimalarial tablets. Dengue fever can also be transmitted via mosquito bites. Try to avoid mosquito bites wherever possible - wear loose long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and use a repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Namibia, so a yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for travellers whose sole destination is Namibia. However, in accordance with International Health Regulations, Nambia requires all travellers over one year of age arriving from a yellow fever risk country, or having been in transit longer than 12 hours at the airport of such a country, to have a yellow fever certificate. These countries include Kenya and Uganda but it is up to the traveller to check the full list here https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-maps

Languages And Culture

English is the official language of Namibia, although it is only the first language of a small percentage of the population, about 7%. Afrikaans is the most widely spoken first language for most Namibians, and around 30% of the population also speak German. Different tribes throughout the country speak either a Bantu dialect (including Owambo, Caprivian and Herero) or a Khoisan dialect (including Nama, Damara and San). The Khoisan dialects are characterised by a 'clicking' sound.

We would ask that all travellers are respectful of the local culture as follows:

If the army or police are protecting a building or place, check before taking any photographs. If in doubt, put your camera away! 

Homosexuality is not prohibited by law, but local attitudes can be less tolerant and public displays of affection may attract negative attention. Whilst everyone is of course entitled to their own sexual preferences and gender identity, we would advise all clients of the LGBT+ community to refrain from public displays of affection (including kissing and holding hands) and to be as discrete as possible about their relationship.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Botswana

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Latest Travel Updates

For up-to-date travel information from the UK government, please check:

UK Government Advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/botswana

 

Normally, holders of the following passports do not require a visa to enter Botswana when travelling as a tourist for stays up to 90 days:

United Kingdom; United States of America; Canada; Australia; New Zealand; Ireland; Belgium; Netherlands; Italy; France; Germany; Norway; Spain; South Africa.

If you are a passport holder from another country,  you can check to see if you require a visa and apply for an eVisa here: https://evisa.gov.bw/#/home.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana and have sufficient blank pages for the Botswana entry/exit stamps (at least 2).

TRAVELLING TO/FROM BOTSWANA WITH CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE AT DATE OF TRAVEL: The following requirements apply regardless of nationality.

Parents travelling with children must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child, showing full details of the child's parents. If the birth certificate is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a sworn translation issued by a competent authority in the country concerned.

If the child is adopted, the adoption certificate must be produced.

If only one parent is travelling, said parent must also show consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent named on the birth certificate authorising the child to travel (the affidavit must be no more than 6 months old from the date of travel), or a court order granting full parental responsibilities to the travelling parent, or (where applicable) a death certificate for the deceased parent. Legally separated parents should also provide a court order when the other parent does not give consent.

Where a person is travelling with a child who is not their biological child, he/she must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child supplemented by affidavits from the child's parents/legal guardian giving consent for the child to travel and copies of the identity documents or passport of the parents/legal guardian PLUS their contact details.

There are also additional rules for unaccompanied minors - available on request.

PLEASE NOTE: All documents must be original - PHOTOCOPIES ARE NOT ACCEPTED. In the case of foreign countries that do not issue unabridged birth certificates, a letter to this effect issued by the competent authority of the foreign country should be produced.

For more information, please contact your local Botswana High Commission.

IMPORTANT:  Plastic bags are banned in Botswana. This ban is primarily aimed to reduce plastic in commercial use (as opposed to tourists bringing in plastic bags to carry personal property), however, we would strongly recommend guests avoid bringing plastic bags into the country if possible.

PLEASE NOTE: Countries can change their entry requirements at any time. Travel Butlers try to ensure that the information displayed here is correct, but the onus remains with the traveller to verify the information with the relevant High Commission or Embassy and ensure that they can comply with the applicable entry requirements.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Botswana

Continued

Medical

You are advised to contact your doctor or clinic around 4-8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations and to get their professional medical advice regarding travel to Botswana.

To help prevent diarrhoea, avoid tap water – drink only bottled water and use bottled water for tooth brushing, and avoid ice made with tap water – and only eat fruit or vegetables that are cooked or can be peeled.

To help avoid heatstroke, drink plenty of bottled water/fluids, and keep out of the midday sun.

There is a risk of malaria in the northern half of Botswana, including Chobe and the Okavango Delta, particularly during the months of November to June - check with your doctor about suitable antimalarial tablets. Try to avoid mosquito bites wherever possible - wear loose long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and use a repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana, so a yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for travellers whose sole destination is Botswana. However, in accordance with International Health Regulations, Botswana requires all travellers over one year of age arriving from a yellow fever risk country, or having been in transit longer than 12 hours at the airport of such a country, to have a yellow fever certificate. These countries include Kenya and Uganda but it is up to the traveller to check the full list here https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-maps

Languages And Culture

English is the official language of Botswana and widely spoken with all guides and general staff in camps and lodges having a good command. In the broader population, however, not everyone will speak English fluently as many have grown up speaking different tribal languages. 

We would ask that all travellers are respectful of the local culture as follows:

Although homosexuality is no longer prohibited by law in Botswana, public attitudes are less tolerant and public displays of affection may attract negative attention. Whilst everyone is of course entitled to their own sexual preferences and gender identity, we would advise all clients of the LGBT+ community to refrain from public displays of affection (including kissing and holding hands) and to be as discrete as possible about their relationship.

You should always ask permission before taking anyone’s photograph. Taking photographs of military and government buildings is prohibited.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Book With Confidence

Travel Butlers have 20 years experience of booking travel to Africa and the Indian Ocean for clients from all around the world.  In this time we have supported clients through disruptions caused by numerous unexpected events including natural disasters, localised disease outbreaks and airline cancellations. Nobody can be certain exactly what will happen in the future, however Travel Butlers can offer you peace of mind and flexibility to ensure that you feel confident booking a holiday with us.

Flexibility and peace of mind before you travel

Our team are specialists in travel to Africa and the Indian Ocean, and we are constantly monitoring the changing situation regarding travel to the region. If your trip cannot go ahead due to specific travel restrictions related to Covid-19 then we will get in touch to offer you the choice of the following:

The specific Covid-19 travel restrictions are defined as follows:

We would not normally be able to confirm that your trip cannot proceed due to travel restrictions until a couple of weeks before the start of your trip, however should you want to look at postponing or altering your trip before then we would aim to be as flexible as possible.

If we confirm that your trip is unable to proceed due to Covid-19 travel restrictions, then we will not charge you an amendment fee if you choose to postpone your trip or move it to another destination. We may need to adjust the cost of your trip to reflect the new dates, particularly if those coincide with a more expensive season of travel or higher grade of accommodation. Equally, if the cost of your postponed trip is less, we will reduce the cost accordingly.

You should still take out travel insurance that includes Covid-19  to cover you in the event that your trip can go ahead but you are unable to travel due to illness or a change in your personal circumstances. If there are no travel restrictions in place that mean your trip could not go ahead but you need to cancel due to illness or a change in your personal circumstances then our normal terms and conditions would apply. You should ensure that your travel insurance provides adequate cover for cancelling due to illness, including Covid-19, and you may be able to make a claim against your travel insurance depending on the cover offered by your policy.

Support whilst you are away

We offer 24/7 telephone assistance to all our clients whilst they are away, and also have partners in each country that are able to assist with any PCR tests or other issues that might arise during your trip.

If you fall ill whilst you are away, or if your trip is disrupted due to Covid-19 whilst you are travelling, then our experienced team will be on hand to assist you in whatever way you need.  You would need to pay any additional costs incurred due to illness or travel disruption whilst you are away, however you may be able reclaim these expenses on your travel insurance depending on the cover offered by your policy.  Travel Butlers will be able to assist by providing supporting documentation for your claim.

Financial protection for your Travel Butlers holiday

All of the holidays we sell are 100% financially protected through our ATOL and ABTOT bonding so your money is in safe hands when you book a Travel Butlers holiday. Furthermore, our business is well positioned to navigate through the challenges which the travel industry is currently facing.

Please read our Terms and Conditions for more information.

Finding suitable travel insurance that covers Covid-19

You can now get insurance that offers cover for disruption related to Covid-19, and these policies could include cover for:

Not all policies offer this kind of cover, not necessarily even all policies from the same provider, so you should ensure you check the policy details carefully before buying your insurance. 

You can read more about choosing suitable travel insurance in the FCDO guide to travel insurance.